UV Index in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Last updated: May 3, 2025

In Kandy, Sri Lanka, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin's health, especially in a region characterized by its tropical climate. The UV levels can soar, peaking at a striking 15 around noon, making awareness essential to prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. With daily fluctuations, especially during the sunniest hours, knowing when to seek shade or wear protective clothing can drastically reduce risks. As you explore the beautiful landscapes of Kandy, staying informed about UV exposure levels will help you enjoy the sun safely and ensure your outdoor adventures remain both memorable and healthy.

Hourly UV Index in Kandy

As the day unfolds, the UV Index begins its climb, starting at a gentle 2 at 07:00. By 09:00, it reaches 9, signaling a more intense level of UV radiation. The sun fully asserts its strength by 11:00, peaking at an impressive 15. This maximum is maintained until 12:00, when the UV Index hovers at 15 before gradually tapering off in the afternoon. By 15:00, it drops to a moderate 5, and as the day cools, the index diminishes further, reaching 2 by 16:00 and dwindling to 0 by 19:00. It's a reminder to stay sun-safe during peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00, when the intensity is at its highest!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	2	low	45 min
08:00	5	moderate	30 min
09:00	9	very high	15 min
10:00	13	extreme	10 min
11:00	15	extreme	10 min
12:00	15	extreme	10 min
13:00	12	extreme	10 min
14:00	9	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	0	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kandy

The UV Index exhibits extreme levels throughout the year, with particularly high readings in the spring months of March (16) and April (15), and continues to remain above 13 from January through September. The high-risk months for UV exposure are February through September, where a mere 10 minutes of sun exposure can lead to skin damage. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take precautions during these months: wear protective clothing, utilize broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seek shade whenever possible, especially during the peak sun hours. Staying informed about daily UV levels can help ensure safe outdoor activities.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kandy, Sri Lanka

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kandy. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kandy, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Kandy UV Index with Other Sri Lanka Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kandy compares to other major locations across Sri Lanka. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kandy's solar exposure compared to other cities in Sri Lanka. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Jaffna UVI	11	13	14	15	13	12	13	13	14	12	11	10
Moratuwa UVI	11	13	14	15	14	12	13	14	14	13	11	10
Maharagama UVI	11	13	14	15	14	12	13	14	14	13	11	10
Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia UVI	12	13	14	15	14	12	13	14	14	13	11	10
Colombo UVI	12	14	14	15	14	13	13	13	14	13	11	10
Kandy	13	14	16	15	15	13	13	14	15	13	12	11